Quien Manda Aqui? (Who’s in Charge here?)

Before I get into the story I have to say that the title is in honor of my Mother. Since my Father was Chilean and she had spent several years working there when she was single, she learned the language. Anyway, once in a while she would ask that question of us children. “Quien manda aqui?” She wanted to make sure we knew that she was in charge ! ! ! ! Sometimes we would tease her and say “Dad”, but we all knew who was in charge at our house!

With cattle it’s a bit different. They determine it just as any animals in the world. He who can win a fight for it is in charge! Here is what we are experiencing on our farm these days. . . .

Do you remember we sent Angie off for a blind date? Well, when she left, the others decided to change the herd dynamic. Since she was the head of the herd, someone else was ready to step up and be in charge. I’m sure she was very concerned about her herd. They called her as she and DH drove away. I can imagine them saying, “Hey where do you think you’re going?” or Hey, Ang, can I have your spot in the run-in shed?” Animals do have their preferences and dislikes, you know.

So now Angie was gone for what would be two weeks. But cows can’t tell time. So, who would now lead them around the pasture? Tell them, “Let’s go over here and see if new grass is growing in my favorite spot.” or “Hey, it’s getting a bit warm now lets find the shade of that tree over there.” And who would be the first to notice something new in the field and investigate? I don’t remember seeing any pushing and shoving for that position. Could it be that it was already decided? Belle (Mama) is still nursing baby, so she’s not in the running. I dont’ think Gretchen even thought about it, but how much do cattle think really?

Among the males (steers), there is a pecking order. You see that was decided in December when on-Q and Jack met for the first time. Isn’t Q cute? He has such a nice straight back, we wish he wasn’t a steer. . . We think he’d throw great calves. Anywayhowever it was decided, our buddy, Q takes charge in Angie’s absence. Mother Nature is amazing. . .

It was VERY interesting to see what happened after she returned to the herd. It was more than just a good sniff to see where she might have been or eaten. she and Q have been having it out since! She wants her role back and he doesn’t want to relinquish it!

Since she came back, Angie and Q have been having a feud. They stick their heads down and face each other. Q usually bellows or growls ( seriously it sounds very bear like!). He paws the ground like he wants to charge. Then. . . then they both push as hard as they can at each other. And they push, and push. . .

Now I don’t know about you, but doesn’t Angie look biggger than Q? he must not get it. . . Is it a testosterone thing?

Any way, they push and push until either he gets tired or one of them gives way even just a little. . . Then the one with the upper hand chases the other. It just doesnt’ seem fair. And it isn’t each to watch poor Q get pushed around so easily by her.

Why do men put themselves into situations like that? Its sad isnt’ it? He wants so hard to be in charge but she won’t let him. But this has gone on for weeks. What is a good steer to do, but keep trying! Maybe he’ll get luck y and she will end up expecting. Then he’ll be in charge. Oh yeah, by then we will have weaned Southern Belle from baby and then the fun will start again!